Louisiana
Statutory term: Unclaimed Property
Overview
Search for Unclaimed Property
This program provides a public search portal where you can look up unclaimed property.
Search Now →Key Statistics
Dormancy Periods
The dormancy period is how long property must be inactive before it is considered unclaimed and reported to the state.
| Property Type | Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bank accounts (checking/savings) | 5 | 5 years after last owner activity or contact |
| Wages/payroll | 1 | 1 year after becoming payable |
| Commissions | 1 | 1 year after becoming payable |
| Insurance proceeds (life) | 3 | 3 years after becoming payable |
| Securities/dividends | 3 | 3 years of inactivity |
| Utility deposits | 1 | 1 year after service termination |
| Safe deposit boxes | 5 | 5 years after lease expiration |
| Traveler's checks | 15 | 15 years after issuance |
| Money orders | 7 | 7 years after issuance |
| Accounts payable | 5 | 5 years of inactivity |
| Credit balances | 3 | 3 years of inactivity |
| Customer refunds | 5 | 5 years after becoming payable |
| IRA (traditional) | 3 | 3 years after required distribution date |
Louisiana's unclaimed property law is codified in La. R.S. 9:151-182. The state follows a framework based on the 1995 UUPA with local modifications. The Louisiana Unclaimed Property Permanent Trust Fund ensures a source of payment for claims. The State Treasurer holds over $900 million in unclaimed property. Reporting deadline is October 31 each year.
Finder / Helper Restrictions
Restriction Level: Moderate
Fee Cap: 10% — Compensation may not exceed 10% of the value of the recoverable property (La. R.S. 9:177).
Waiting Period: 24 months — Agreements entered into during the period from presumed abandonment through 24 months after the property is paid or delivered to the administrator are void and unenforceable (La. R.S. 9:177).
Solicitation Rules: No specific statutory prohibition on unsolicited contact, but agreements must meet detailed written disclosure requirements.